Artists Commemorate Chicago's 1919 Race Riot with Glass Markers
The Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project has dedicated years to installing memorials across the city honoring those killed during the historic event. The newest installations were showcased during a walking tour in the Loop on Saturday.
Remembering a Forgotten Victim
At the corner of Adams Street and Wabash Avenue, many see a busy city intersection near landmarks like the Chicago Theatre and Grant Park. For Paul Hardwick, this spot marked his tragic final moments. Over a century ago, Hardwick, an African American man, was on his way to work at the Palmer House hotel when he was attacked by a mob of about 30 white assailants. He was shot, beaten, and robbed.
“He was long forgotten as one of 38 killed in the Chicago Race Riot of 1919, which historians say is not often taught or discussed.”
Honoring Victims Through Memorial Art
Today, Hardwick’s memory endures with a glass marker placed at the site of his death, made possible by the Commemoration Project. Volunteers have been installing brick-shaped glass memorials along sidewalks where these killings took place, creating a citywide tribute to the victims.
Youth affected by violence crafted the memorials, guided by Firebird Community Arts, an East Garfield Park organization with a trauma-informed arts program.
Project Progress
- 19 glass markers have been installed citywide so far.
- Paul Hardwick’s plaque is among the most recent additions.
This effort brings long-overlooked history into public remembrance through meaningful, community-driven art.
Author’s summary: Glass memorials in Chicago honor victims of the overlooked 1919 Race Riot, turning the city’s sidewalks into sites of remembrance created by youth impacted by violence.